Their photo of sad-looking corn kernels on a plain, butterless bread roll has gone viral, attracting hundreds of likes, comments and shares after it was posted on Facebook.

The word “cob” is commonly used instead of bread roll in large parts of England, including Nottingham, which is how the awkward mistake was made.

“So just been to grill town on Mansfield road with William and asked if they did corn on the cob? And this is what he came back with!” Ms Hart wrote on February 8, where the meal was variously described as an “absolute mess” and “bloody brilliant” by amused Facebook users.

The couple had paid £14 ($AU25) for the total order — including £3.50 ($AU6) for the corn disaster.

Ms Hart explained to UK media outlets that she and her partner had decided to order from the restaurant — which she said was similar to the Nando’s chicken chain — as they “couldn’t be bothered to cook” that night.